Sixth Formers transcribe WW1 diary

A number of Sixth Form pupils have been working with the Archives and Library team in transcribing the letters of Francis Raymund James (R1912); the letters document his time on the Western Front, during The Great War.

The three pupils have been transcribing the letters written by the Old Gregorian; the letters are part of the Downside Archive collections and were annotated by Raymund himself following his return from the front.

The project has provided the pupils with a chance to use primary sources and develop research skills – especially useful for those going to university next September.

The pupils were initially involved in the summer term on a short term basis but it proved so successful that it has now evolved into a longer commemoration project. The transcription process will hopefully be completed in early 2018.

The pupils spoke on the BBC Radio Somerset Breakfast programme – click here (scroll to 1hour 5 mins) to hear them. They also spoke to BBC Radio Bristol, click here to listen (scroll to 1hour 23mins).

If you’re considering which A Levels to study, and would like to learn more about Downside, come to our Sixth Form Open Day, on Saturday 14th October. Click here for further details.

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